MEMBERS of the Australian Subway Joeys Under-17 men football team are excited to be in Honiara and are looking forward to the friendly showdown.
That’s according to the Subway Joeys’ Head Coach Brad Maloney upon the team’s arrival in Honiara, Sunday night.
The 40-member delegation arrived to a warm island reception at the Henderson International Airport.
Head coach Maloney told the media that these games are crucial for his players’ development in terms of experience and exposure.
“Thank you very much for the welcome. It’s great for us to be here, not only for myself but for the staff and the team and we’ve been looking forward for these friendlies for the past few weeks.
“We look forward for the couple of games. Australia and Solomon Islands have been great friends for many years even since our days back in Oceania in terms of football.
“Since we moved to Asian Confederation, we haven’t had the opportunity to visit each other and play each other.
“So, this gives us the opportunity and we’re very proud to be here,” Coach Maloney said.
He said, any international exposure for players at this age is a great exposure for his boys.
“I know they are really looking forward to this and they’re excited.
“We are applying all the players in what they are and its going to be a big challenge for the boys as well,” he added.
The Subway Joeys are Australia’s National Men’s U17 team preparing for the U-17 Asian Confederation Qualifier.
SIFF administration in a statement said, the team’s arrival highlights the strong development partnership between SIFF, Football Australia, and the Australian Government.
“The visit is a significant milestone in the ongoing partnership between SIFF and Football Australia supported by the Australian Government through the Australian High Commission, Solomon Islands through the PacificAus Sports program.
“This collaboration marks the beginning of a long-term relationship aimed at providing greater exposure for our national teams, creating valuable opportunities for development and exchange through football,” the statement said.
The first match will be played this Thursday commencing 6pm and the second match will be played on the coming Sunday at 7pm.
Both matches will be played at the national stadium. Entry tickets are now on sale and will also available at the entrance gate.
An adult ticket costs $10.00 and a child ticket is $2.00 at limited offer.
The Subway Joeys’ Honiara tour is made possible by Football Australia, Australian Aid and SIFF.
It’s the first time for such a youth side playing 11-a-side to visit Honiara.
From Honiara, the side travels to Port Vila, Vanuatu for a one match friendly.
By IAN LADDS OSO
Solomon Star, Honiara
